Discover the versatility of 40ft open top containers — perfect for oversized cargo and top-loading goods. Durable, secure, and designed for easy handling anytime, anywhere.
Model: 40' Standard Open Top (Removable Tarpaulin System)
Provider: Worthy Container / Web: www.worthycontainer.com
Standard Compliance: ISO 668, ISO 1496-1, CSC Certified
1. General Overview
The 40ft Open Top container is a specialized intermodal unit engineered for the transport and storage of oversized, heavy, or ultra-long cargo that cannot be maneuvered through standard end doors. Instead of a fixed steel roof, this unit utilizes a removable system of galvanized steel rafters (bows) and a heavy-duty, weather-proof tarpaulin.
At Worthy Container, we supply these units primarily to the mining, construction, and heavy-machinery sectors. The 40ft length allows for the top-loading of long-span industrial components, such as large-diameter pipes, structural steel, or large engine blocks, via overhead cranes.
2. Technical Specifications (Dimensions & Weights)
Length: 12,192 mm (40' 0")
Width: 2,438 mm (8' 0")
Height: 2,591 mm (8' 6")
Internal Length: 12,032 mm (39' 5")
Internal Width: 2,352 mm (7' 8")
Internal Height: 2,348 mm (7' 8")
Top Opening Length: ~11,500 mm (approx. 37' 8")
Top Opening Width: ~2,200 mm (approx. 7' 2")
Door Opening Height: 2,280 mm (7' 5")
| Feature | Metric (kg) | Imperial (lbs) |
| Tare Weight (Approx.) | ~3,950 kg | ~8,708 lbs |
| Max Payload | ~26,530 kg | ~58,492 lbs |
| Max Gross Weight | 30,480 kg | ~67,200 lbs |
| Internal Volume | 66.4 m³ | ~2,345 cu. ft. |
3. Structural Construction & Key Components
Roof Bows: The unit is fitted with approximately 10–12 removable, galvanized steel "cambered" (arched) bows. These support the tarpaulin and provide essential lateral tension to the side walls to prevent "bowing" when the unit is loaded.
Tarpaulin (Tir): A heavy-duty, PVC-coated polyester fabric (typically 600g/m²). It is 100% waterproof, UV-stabilized, and reinforced at the corners.
Tir Cable: A PVC-coated steel wire cable that secures the tarp to the container eyelets, allowing for customs sealing (TIR compliance).
A defining feature of the Worthy Container 40ft Open Top is the swinging rear header bar located above the rear doors.
Function: This bar can be unlatched and swung 180 degrees or removed entirely. This allows for tall machinery to be driven or slid into the container from the rear without being obstructed by the top door frame.
Flooring: 28mm (1.1 inch) Marine-grade plywood, treated to resist rot and pests.
Lashing Rings: Multiple high-tensile lashing points (rated at ~2,000 kg each) are welded into the bottom side rails to ensure heavy loads remain stationary during transit.
4. Operational Advantages
Crane Loading Efficiency: Allows for the rapid "vertical loading" of 12-meter pipes, structural bundles, or industrial turbines that are too heavy or long for forklifts.
Over-Height Capabilities: Cargo that stands slightly taller than the 8' 6" external height can still be transported. While "over-height" cargo prevents stacking of other containers on top, it provides a legal and secure transport method for oversized equipment.
Versatile Discharge: Ideal for bulk commodities (such as scrap metal or heavy ores) that need to be discharged using a "tipper" or grabbed from above by a magnetic crane.
Weather Protection: Once the tarp is secured, the unit is as Wind & Water Tight (WWT) as a standard dry container.
5. Condition Categories: New vs. Used
Condition: Manufactured and shipped once. The tarpaulin, roof bows, and gaskets are in pristine condition.
Security: Includes a factory-fitted Lock Box and easy-open door handles.
Longevity: Best for high-value machinery exports where zero water ingress is mandatory.
5.2 Used (Cargo Worthy) 40ft Open Top
Condition: Retired from shipping lines; guaranteed structurally sound and watertight.
Grading: Worthy Container ensures all roof bows are present and straight. We often provide a brand-new, heavy-duty tarpaulin with used units to ensure long-term performance.
6. Security & Maintenance
Structural Tension: Never operate the container without the roof bows in place if it is being transported. The bows are necessary to maintain the structural "box" shape.
Ponding Prevention: Ensure the tarpaulin is pulled tight using the Tir cable. If the tarp sags, rainwater can collect (ponding), creating several hundred pounds of weight that can bend the roof bows.
Header Lubrication: The swinging header hinge is a critical moving part; it should be greased every 6 months to prevent seizing.
7. Site Preparation & Delivery
Leveling: The unit must be placed on a level surface. If the 40ft frame is unlevel, the side walls may "splay" (lean outward) when the roof bows are removed, making re-installation of the bows nearly impossible.
Site Clearance: Ensure there is sufficient vertical clearance for the crane if you intend to top-load.
Delivery: Typically delivered via Hiab (Crane) Truck or Side-Loader.
Weight: Approx. 4 tons (8,708 lbs) empty.
Access: Ensure the delivery driver has enough space to deploy stabilizers. Staff should be available to assist in verifying the tarp and cable are secure upon placement.
Please refer to the lists of our available 40ft Double Door containers below for each location. Let us know if you require any further assistance.